Profiles of executive functioning and neuroticism in emerging adulthood: Concurrent associations with psychopathology and health-related quality of life

Abstract

Objective: We employed latent profile analysis (LPA) to discern configurations of executive functioning (EF) and neuroticism (NE) and tested their concurrent validity with respect to internalizing and externalizing problems and physical health. Participants: A total of 125 college students completed the study. Methods: Participants self-reported NE and EF on separate normed rating scales and completed computerized tests of EF. Self-reported internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and global physical health were collected. Results: LPA revealed four profiles: (1) Lower EF + Higher NE, (2) Higher EF + Lower NE, (3) Inconsistent EF + Higher NE, and (4) Inconsistent EF + Lower NE. Adjusting for covariates, profiles were differentially associated with internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and physical health. Conclusions: Screening EF and NE in college students may identify those at risk for psychopathology and physical health concerns. Tailored prevention and intervention efforts on college campuses targeting EF and NE may enhance well-being.

Keywords:

• Emerging adulthood
• executive functioning
• neuroticism

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Mental Health predoctoral fellowship in Biobehavioral Issues in Mental and Physical Health (MH 15750 to Michelle C. Fenesy).